CDOT Prepares for Winter Weather While It’s Still Warm

Published on October 21, 2025

There's currently no snow in the forecast, but CDOT snow plows are already on the move.

With temperatures still reaching 80 degrees, the Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT) is wasting no time getting ready for winter. Over the last several weeks, CDOT crews have been conducting their annual winter weather training to ensure drivers, equipment and operations are fully prepared before the first sign of snow or ice.

“We’re checking our equipment right now, making sure it’s in proper condition,” said Stephen Bolt, CDOT Street Superintendent. “We load every piece of equipment with the spreaders and plows, just like we would in an actual event.”

More than 75 CDOT drivers are rotating through hands-on training courses. Drivers are learning how to operate large snow plows safely on tight urban roads — a key part of the department’s winter response plan.

“A plow just brings a different kind of dynamic to the job,” said Bolt. “We want to make sure they’re prepared and comfortable to go out there when Charlotte needs them.”

“We also train them on the routes they’ll be covering,” he added. “We want them to be familiar with the area, and to know how to spot and avoid safety hazards. Our top priority is keeping both the public and our crews safe.”

Preparation isn’t just about driving. CDOT mechanics and operations staff are inspecting the full fleet of snow response equipment, from salt spreaders to brine tanks, to identify and fix any issues well before winter arrives.

“If we find issues with equipment now, we may face long lead times for repairs,” Bolt said. “We don’t want to be caught off guard when the weather changes.”

At CDOT’s salt storage facilities, crews are also stocking supplies and mixing brine — a saltwater solution used for pretreating roads before a storm.

“We carry about 4,000 tons of salt,” said Bolt. “We make our own brine here in Charlotte, so we can get our pretreatment out ahead of time.”

Although they’re training in short sleeves now, CDOT crews will be among the first to respond when winter weather hits Charlotte.

“Our employees are public works first responders,” said Bolt. “They are the front line to keep Charlotte moving, and they gladly come in when called.”

“Safety is number one. Mobility is key to our city staying open,” he added. “So when we call, they show up, and they do their job really well.”